As Customs faces increasingly sophisticated attempts to smuggle banned goods into Barbados, Minister of Finance Ryan Straughn has stressed the department’s efforts to strengthen border security and prevent illegal firearms, drugs and other dangerous items from entering the country.

He spoke at a press conference at the Barbados Customs and Excise Department on Tuesday as the department celebrates its 121st anniversary.

Straughn said border security is one of three critical areas that Customs focuses on, alongside revenue collection and supporting legitimate trade